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Your Guide to Moving Overseas
When moving overseas, expect to do much
planning. Besides the normal adjustments and preparation of
moving domestically, there are other things to consider when moving to
a foreign land. Here are some tips to help your move go as
smoothly as possible.
Prepare for the Move in Advance
You should prepare for your move overseas far in advance.
Why? Moving can be quite an adventure when your belongings must
travel by automobile, plane and possibly ship! Everything from
what you pack to how you pack it must be carefully planned out
beforehand. Consider the handling of your belongings and what
they will be exposed to during the move - temperature changes,
moisture, movement, etc.
Also, determine what you should pack and what to leave out before the
move. Your items might be in transport for several weeks before
arriving at your new home. Anything you need during that time
should be kept out. If you will be traveling by plane, check with
the airline to find out what you can and cannot carry with you as
personal luggage. There are usually weight restrictions for this.
Moving Assistance
Choose your movers carefully. Cost should not be the only
determining factor. If possible, get recommendations from others
who have experienced a similar move. Or, research several
companies online and through the Better Business Bureau to find a
reliable company. Your items will be in their hands, so it's important
to choose a reliable mover who understands the process of moving to a
foreign land well.
Breaking Old Ties and Forming
New Ones
As you prepare for your move, be sure to contact every company
necessary to let them know you are moving to a foreign country.
You'll need to cancel memberships, subscriptions, turn off utilities
and phone, cancel insurance if not available where you will live. Don't
forget to let your local Post Office know you will be moving as well,
and ask about forwarding your mail if possible. If you are unable
to get the mail forwarded to a foreign country, you might have it
forwarded to a friend or relative nearby and have them mail it to you.
While breaking ties where you live, you also need to form new ones
where you will be moving. If renting, make sure all utilities
will be turned on when you arrive. If buying a home, find out
from your realtor how and where to set up utilities, phone, television,
online connections, etc. You'll want to time this with your
arrival time so you won't get stuck in your new home without power,
water, heat or air.
Finances
One area that can be confusing when moving to a new land is
finances. You might have various banking accounts including
savings, checking, IRAs, bonds, etc. These will all have to be
transferred if available where you are going or cancelled and your
money withdrawn from the bank. Either way, there will be currency
differences. Find a reliable banking solution before arriving at
your new home. You might be able to transfer your money to the
new bank before arriving so you won't have to carry lots of cash with
you. Find out all you can about the currency and banking before
you go.
Establish Citizenship
You'll need to establish citizenship for you and your family as soon as
possible, so don't wait to do this. Find out from your local
government what will be required of you - vaccinations, forms,
identification, Visas, etc.
Health Issues
If you have medical conditions which require prescription medications
or follow-up visits, talk with your doctor and pharmacist about the
move to find out what you should do. If you can locate a doctor
in advance where you will be moving, it might make matters
easier. Find out if you can transfer your medical records to a
doctor there.
With careful preparation, your move overseas can be a pleasant
one. Use the tips above to stay organized during your move.
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